Speed hump precautions

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Although speed humps have been proven to reduce speed and make neighborhoods safer, some critics claim that they can cause damage to vehicles, increase emergency response time, and increase traffic noise. Fortunately, many of these issues can be mitigated through proper speed cushion planning.

Vehicle damage

There is potential for speed humps to damage the undercarriage of vehicles, particularly if the vehicles are lowered. There are several methods that urban planners can use to mitigate any potential damage :

Placement

Speed humps should be placed on level roads as a change in incline can make the hump functionally higher. Other considerations should include placement relative to intersections, driveways, manholes, streetlights, and curbs.

Material

Rubber and plastic speed humps cause less damage to vehicles. Rubber will compress under impact, and plastic will sustain damage before here is any damage to the car. Concrete and metal speed humps are more likely to cause damage because of their lack of flexibility.

Visibility

Drivers who are unable to see or anticipate speed humps can be at risk if they speed over the humps. Signage, paint, and reflective strips can all be used to increase speed hump visibility.

Weather

Speed humps can be hidden under snow, surprising drivers and interrupting snow removal operations. Signage at the roadside of speed humps help decrease the inconveniences caused by snowy weather conditions.